Why the NBA world is enthralled with Kristaps Porzingis — the Knicks' 20-year-old, 7-foot-3 Latvian rookie

Coming into the season, Porzingis was a giant unknown — a 7-foot-3, 20-year-old from Latvia who had the height and length of a center, the shooting ability of a guard, and the athleticism of a forward.

While the NBA world was high on him, Porzingis was deemed a project. He needed to put on weight, and on top of being new to the NBA, would need time to craft his unique array of skills into a workable blend.

Instead, Porzingis has played a big part on a surprisingly decent Knicks team, and has produced several impressive highlights just nine games into his NBA career.

Between his incredible size, surprising production, jaw-dropping potential, and overall mystique, here's why the NBA world is so enthralled with Porzingis.

Prior to the 2015 NBA Draft, most of the NBA world had little exposure to Kristaps Porzingis. Compared to known prospects like Karl-Anthony Towns or Jahlil Okafor, Porzingis was a mysterious, scrawny teenager loaded with potential, playing in Spain.

Via YouTube

People had to rely on grainy YouTube footage of his highlights, showing a wiry, but explosive athlete from Latvia.

In his lone pre-draft workout, Porzingis blew people away, showing his incredible athleticism and shooting touch for a player of his size. One scout said he was the best player in the draft.

It became clear that Porzingis has a different personality from many of the European players that come to the NBA at a young age.

New York City began to embrace Porzingis. He threw out the first pitch at a Mets game and did a surprisingly decent job, considering it was his first time throwing a baseball.

His work ethic further endeared him to the NBA. Knicks GM Steve Mills said he walked in on Porzingis in the summer taking an ice bath and watching footage of Usain Bolt running to try and improve his form.